Hormone Implants
Find out more about hormone implants, how long they last and what to expect
What are Hormone Implants?
Hormone implants are small pellets of the the natural bio-identical hormones, oestradiol or testosterone which can be inserted under the skin. The pellets release hormones slowly and usually last six months. Some women need oestradiol alone, but other women need both oestradiol and testosterone. The doctor assessing you will advise what is most suitable for you.
Unlike oral HRT, hormone implants, like patches and gels, bypass the gut and the liver, avoiding any increase in the risk of blood clots (thrombosis).
Hormone implants are useful when there is inadequate absorption with the gels or patches or where symptoms persist with patches or gels.
You will need to take additional progesterone by mouth or vaginally unless you have had a hysterectomy or have a Mirena IUS in place. The progesterone is usually taken for 12 days a month and will result in a regular bleeding pattern.
How are they given?
The implant is inserted subcutaneously (in the fatty layer under the skin) through a very small incision about 5-10 mm, usually under the bikini line or in the buttock area using local anaesthetic. The incision is then closed with sterile tape strips. After insertion of the pellets, vigorous physical activity should be avoided for 1-2 days. Some patients begin to feel symptom relief within a few days, while others take up to 2 weeks or more to notice a difference.
How long will it last?
An implant usually lasts around six months.
What are the advantages of a hormone implant?
Hormone implants are helpful for women who do not absorb hormone gels very well, experience irritation or find using a gel time-consuming and hard to comply with.
What are the disadvantages of a hormone implant?
Having an implant requires having a procedure, which means a visit to the clinic every six months. There is often some minor bruising around the implant site, but this is not usually too troublesome. Very rarely there can be minor bleeding later the same day which invariably settles with gentle pressure. Very rarely the implants can be extruded, and infection is also very rare.
Hormone test
As with other forms of HRT regular blood tests are required to monitor the treatment.
Book your appointment
Book your appointment with our specialist team
Dr Neale Watson
Consultant Gynaecologist
Dr Mike Savvas
Consultant Gynaecologist
Dr Marilena Nicou
GP Menopause specialist
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will it last?
An implant usually lasts around six months.
Where is the implant inserted?
The implant is inserted subcutaneously (in the fatty layer under the skin) through a very small incision about 5-10 mm, usually under the bikini line or in the buttock area using local anaesthetic. The incision is then closed with sterile tape strips.
How long will it take to recover after receiving a hormone implant?
After insertion of the pellets, vigorous physical activity should be avoided for 2-3 days. Some patients begin to feel symptom relief within a few days, while others take up to 2 weeks or more to notice a difference.
What to Expect From Your Visit
The first visit will entail a comprehensive consultation, examination and hormone profile testing if required. Our highly qualified menopause specialists will guide you through the process of choosing the safest and most effective treatment to manage your symptoms.
A prescription will usually be issued, at the first visit if appropriate and a follow-up is arranged after 2-3 months to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and make changes as required. Our clinic allows for remote consultation for those who cannot make an in-person follow-up. This may be via a video or telephone call.
Additional services such as pelvic ultrasound scan, coil fittings, smear tests and bone density scan (DEXA) may also be performed as appropriate. We can also arrange for you to have a mammogram if you need one.